Mackey's in Ontario, Oregon

As many of you are aware, I moved to Idaho a few years ago. A few days ago I had to visit Ontario, Oregon which is about a 45 minute drive from me to meet with some friends and family for dinner. With quite a few restaurants to choose from, we all decided to eat at Mackey's, as it was a new place for all of us. As a vegetarian, I didn't know what to expect, but like most eateries now day, it seems to be a lifestyle most cater to. 

In the heart of Ontario on 111 SW Street lies one of the most underrated dining establishments, Mackey's. Traditionally this eatery is known as both a Pub and Steakhouse, hence the Irish theme. 

To be quite frank, I have never really ate at an Irish restaurant, but always wanted to. I guess what stopped me was the idea that they wouldn't have anything for vegetarians let alone anything plant-based. Needless to say I was wrong with my assumptions. 


Looking at the menu, I was modestly impressed. To be honest, I was thinking they offered only a few things that were meat-free, but here, they had quite a few options. 

To start my meal, I wanted a beer. We were in an Irish themed eatery, so I thought it would pair amazingly with my meal. Then, to start I ordered mozzarella cheese sticks along with the homemade spinach and artichoke dip. I also ordered a grilled cheese with a side of French fries.

Shortly after my waitress brought me the beer, she brought out the mozzarella cheese sticks followed by the homemade spinach and artichoke dip. The dip was complemented with flat bread and an assortment of raw veggies. Needless to say, the presentation looked fantastic and my mouth was already watering. And about a few minutes later she brought out the grilled cheese with the side of French fries. 

The food was ultimately fantastic. I loved how everything was prepared. I felt like the food was fresh from the kitchen, as everything was warm. The homemade spinach and artichoke dip was loaded with cheese, including cream cheese. They also added quite a few other things into it including red onion. I truly believe the portion size was excellent. 

And as much as I enjoyed the mozzarella cheese sticks and the grilled cheese, it was the homemade spinach and artichoke dip that stole the show. What more can I say? This appetizer won me over. I would literally eat at Mackey's everyday just to eat this again. 

Overall, my experience at Mackey's was a great one. And if you are a vegetarian, you will not only love this place, but appreciate it for catering to the lifestyle. The only thing they need to make is a house-made veggie burger and they would be set. 

I would also like to add that the service was truly exceptional, as the waitress was quite swift and attentive. 

But the real question remains; however, would I recommend this restaurant? And if so, would I dine here again? Yes, I would recommend this restaurant and yes, I would definitely eat here again. 

For more information about Mackey's, visit the official website by clicking here

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